In celebration of this harvest time abundance, Global Awareness, Local Action (G.A.L.A.) is once again hosting its annual Farm to Table Feast with the mission of addressing one of the fundamental pillars of sustainability—food and agriculture. The event literally brings the farming and culinary community to the same table in hopes of discussing and working through some of the barriers that keep local foods from entering the local food markets on more regular and agreeable terms. At the same time, attendees leave with a renewed commitment to support local food and agriculture. Ultimately, this means the ties people have to their local farms and businesses are strengthened, and more money is kept in the local economy which helps to build resiliency and strengthen our community.

Through the Farm to Table Feast, local farmers are connected to local chefs who use fresh local produce, meat, and cheese to craft up gourmet dishes such the goat cheese and roasted red pepper strudel; stuffed pork loin with green bean, caramelized beet and feta salad, and caramel apple shortcake with cinnamon whipped cream on last year’s menu. This year’s menu is still in the works but diners can be assured of a delicious and surprising treat yet again! Advance rumors have it that a hearty beef stew, vegetable cassoulet , and goat’s milk and honey cheesecake are in the works.

The capacity of The Barn limits the guest number to 120, so early reservations are recommended for the event on Saturday, October 8th at 6:30pm. Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased online or by calling the G.A.L.A. office at 603-539-6460. The event is BYOB and warm attire is recommended.

In 2010, forty three farms, restaurants, and local organizations, collaborated to present the Farm to Table Feast, bringing in more than $25,000 worth of in-kind support, and helping to raise around $3,000 dollars for G.A.L.A. However, G.A.L.A. did more than raise money for its programs and create partnerships between farmers and chefs; it helped build a stronger community voice and sense of community belonging. That evening, 65% of attendees left the dinner with “a deepened sense of community”. They felt they were part of a bigger picture, that they were part of a greater effort to strengthen our local economies, build resiliency within our changing environment, and create a network of supportive neighbors who can help see each other succeed through hard times. As you can tell, this is a win-win event for all involved!

This one-hour, afternoon webinar is organized by a group called Circle Forward. It's on G.A.L.A.'s calendar because we use consent-based governance called "Dynamic Governance". We think it offers some great tools to help groups make decisions and work together. This webinar would be great for anyone who is part of a team or group, and especially if you are interested in volunteering on one of G.A.L.A.'s many committees and board! The webinar is on the third Thursday of every month.